Sign the Petition to Fight the Repeal of Net Neutrality

CAST | December 05, 2017 | by Scott Code

Net neutrality, simply put, ensures all online internet traffic is treated equally (open internet). Under net neutrality, all users have equal access to online content and internet service providers (ISP) can not provide faster or slower service to specific users, contents, or applications. It protects consumers from ISP blocking or slowing speeds for internet content or applications, or providing higher speeds to those who pay more.

On December 14th, the FCC commission will vote to repeal the net neutrality rule. If repealed, it could dramatically limit or reduce internet access for aging services providers and the older adults they serve, particularly low-income older adults. For example, an ISP could slow the internet connection service providers, or low-income older adults, over others based on a “pay to play” tiered approach. This could also negatively affect services such as telehealth and remote patient monitoring services, due to prioritizing premium television streaming and similar services.

Net neutrality also protects older adults from being charged extra for broadband access to important social connectedness technologies like FaceTime, Skype, and other similarly bandwidth-demanding social connectivity applications. Without net neutrality, an ISP could charge an extra monthly fee to access social media sites or use applications such as FaceTime to keep older adults connected to friends and families.

In short, the repeal of net neutrality means slower internet for more money for you and your residents!

There are a few ways you can help protect net neutrality. LeadingAge members, their staff, and residents are highly encouraged to sign this petition posted on the official White House website. We also urge you to call your Member of Congress to express your support of net neutrality using the following call-in number: 202-224-3121.